Chaney Johnson’s NBA odyssey officially begins.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed the Auburn Tigers’ versatile 6‑foot‑7 forward, Chaney Johnson, to an Exhibit 10 contract—an invitation to training camp with the chance to secure a two-way deal or a spot in the Cleveland Charge, their G‑League affiliate. His story from overlooked Division II standout to hopeful NBA contributor is as inspiring as it is sudden .
🌟 From Division II to Final Four Hero
Johnson’s roots trace back to Alabama‑Huntsville, where he thrived at Thompson High School before taking Auburn by storm. Coming off the bench, he averaged 9.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 1.3 APG in the 2024‑25 season—while shooting a scorching 56.7% from the field and 70.4% from the foul line . He emerged as a key figure during Auburn’s unexpected run to the Final Four, delivering crucial plays in high-pressure moments .
Not just a role player, Johnson earned accolades including NABC Southeast District Second Team honors and was touted as a rising star with a rare combination of size, motor, and court intelligence . Scouts believe he’ll need to sharpen his shooting and quickness, but acknowledge his defensive versatility and grit .
🏀 The Exhibit 10 Deal & What It Means
Under the terms of an Exhibit 10 contract, Johnson enters Cleveland’s training camp with a dual-path opportunity: earn a two-way contract or thrive in the G‑League, where he stands to pocket up to an $85,000 bonus after 60 days with the Charge .
For the Cavaliers, it’s a strategic gamble—retaining a dynamic, defender-forward who can contribute energy and depth off the bench. Johnson’s physical frame and interior presence fit a Cavaliers blueprint built on toughness and youth .
💡 Why Cleveland Took a Chance on Johnson
Cleveland’s front office sees much more than stats. They value Johnson’s “toughness and interior presence,” qualities polished through his Auburn tenure. At a time when the Cavs are prioritizing long-term development—evidenced by their drafting of Tyrese Proctor and Saliou Niang—Johnson is seen as a natural fit for their system .
Scouting opinions reflect a player with real upside: agile, athletic, fierce on defense, and adept at hustle plays. Though labeled a “tweener,” lacking elite shooting or first-step quickness, his potential to grow into a rotational role is widely recognized .
🔜 What Lies Ahead
All eyes now shift to Cavaliers training camp and the Summer League in Las Vegas. For Johnson, it’s a defining moment to show he can rise—and thrive—on basketball’s biggest stage. The Cavaliers stand ready to give him the runway. If he continues to prove his skills and confidence, he could emerge not just as a G‑League stalwart, but as a quality rotation piece for Cleveland down the line.
In one sentence, the essence of his journey is clear: a player who rose from humble beginnings, delivered in the biggest moments, and now wears a Cavaliers jersey, ready to fight for a place in the NBA.
This is more than a contract—it’s the start of Chaney Johnson’s next chapter: from Auburn cult hero to Cavs hopeful, with grit, faith, and determination lighting the way.
